The Oakland Raiders added an impact offensive player in the first round of the draft, by selecting Khalil Mack. The Raiders built on that by selecting Derek Carr as their developmental quarterback of the future in Derek Carr.
Carr’s big-body and big-arm made him a candidate to be selected in the first round, so the value at 36 is tremendous. Added with Nor-cal connections and NFL Bloodlines, it seems like a no brainer that the Raidersselected Carr. However, there is still so much talent available that the Raiders can still nabb an impact player in the third round or trade back into the second.
Defensive Line
Mack’s addition solidifies the Raiders pass-rush, but they still need a force on the inside rotation. Lucky for them, them one with a first round grade are still on the board for a trade-up. Louis Nixx, and Timmy Jernigan are two disruptive forces on the inside. Any of these guys could warrant trading up, because they fill a need and provide immediate impact. However, They may even wait until the third round to select ASU’s Will Sutton, Notre Dame’s Stephon Tuitt, and Penn State’s Da Quan Jones who all would also be young upgrades on the inside.
Wide Recievers
Many slated the Raiders to select Sammy Watkins or Mike Evans at the top of the draft. Mack fell to them, and they did not second guess themselves. However, this is a very deep class. Allen Robinson, Cody Latimor, and Jordan Matthews are the big recievers Reggie McKenzie perfers, so any of them could be potential options to trade up for. Even if they do not elect to trade up and select a reciever in the second round, their are plenty of guys who may fall to the 3rd and possibly day 3. Donte Montecrief, Davante Adams, Paul Richardson, and Latarvius Murray are a little bit more raw then the guys mentioned above, but could have an equally high ceiling. The Raiders will probably only draft one of them if they are the best player available.
Defensive Backs
The Raiders still have a need in the defensive back field. Brock Vereen could be available as a safety in the third round. Otherwise they would be better off waiting for day 3 to select a safety. Jaylen Watkins would be a wanted slot corner/safety combo at the top of the third round. Bashaud Breeland, Keith McGill, Phillip Gaines, and Stanley Jean-Baptiste could all be other names to keep an eye on. They have Different skill sets but could be best players available when the third round comes along.
Offensive Line
The Raiders missed out on Bitinio and Suo Fila at the top of the second. However, centers Weston Richburg, Marcus Martin, and Travis Swanson could all be available when the Raiders select again in the third round
